Good News For RCB Fans! Josh Hazlewood Likely To Be Available For IPL 2025 Play-Offs: Report

Add as a preferred source on Google

Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood is poised to make a well-timed comeback for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) as they gear up for the IPL 2025 playoffs, according to a report from ESPNcricinfo.

Hazlewood has been sidelined due to a minor shoulder issue and has been undergoing rehabilitation in Brisbane following his return home after RCB's final league match before the tournament's mid-season interval.

The right-arm quick, who has been training in line with Australia's World Test Championship (WTC) final build-up against South Africa, is reportedly nearing full fitness. Although RCB have yet to officially confirm his return, sources suggest Hazlewood is likely to rejoin the squad in India ahead of the playoffs.

Before being sidelined, Hazlewood was in brilliant form, picking up 18 wickets at a phenomenal average of 17.27 in just ten appearances. His return would significantly strengthen RCB's bowling unit as they prepare for crucial upcoming matches-against Sunrisers Hyderabad on May 23 and Lucknow Super Giants on May 27-having already secured a place in the knockout stages.

This IPL season marked Hazlewood's return to top-level cricket after a challenging domestic period marred by injuries. A calf strain during the third Test versus India, along with a lingering side strain, had kept him out of several fixtures, including the Champions Trophy and the Sri Lanka tour.

The IPL 2025 playoffs are set to begin on May 29. The BCCI recently revealed the venues, with the top two teams facing off in Qualifier 1 in New Chandigarh. The Eliminator will take place on May 30, also in Chandigarh. The action then shifts to Ahmedabad for Qualifier 2 on June 1, culminating in the grand finale at the Narendra Modi Stadium on June 3.

RCB, alongside Gujarat Titans, Mumbai Indians, and Punjab Kings, have locked in their playoff spots. Hazlewood's possible return adds depth and experience to an already formidable RCB side eyeing their maiden IPL title.